Rongai Route – Climb Kilimanjaro – 6 Days

Itinerary Description

The only route that can be taken on the mountain’s north-eastern side is called the Rongai Route. This path is quickly becoming more well-known because, after Marangu, it is the second easiest one, and it passes through some breathtakingly beautiful wilderness.

Climbers who wish to avoid the large numbers of other mountaineers on other routes should consider taking the Rongai Route instead. This route can begin on either the Tanzanian or the Kenyan side of the mountain, and its completion can be accomplished in a span of six days.

The Rongai Route is the only one that is taken to ascend the mountain, and at the very top it connects with the Marangu Route, which is also the route that is taken to ascend the mountain. Numerous caves, some of which are also utilized as overnight accommodations, can be found along this route.
The Rongai Route is one of the least travelled routes up Mount Kilimanjaro and is also the only route on Kilimanjaro that starts from the mountain’s northernmost point.

Those who are looking for a climbing experience that is unlike any other are driving the rise in popularity of the Rongai Route. This route is less difficult than others, has fewer people on it, and stays drier because it faces north. 

Day by Day Itinerary

Day One – Moshi – Rongai Gate – 1st Caves Camp

Following breakfast, a driver will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi and drive you to the Marangu Gate where climber registration procedures will be followed.

The Rongai Gate, which is about 2.5 hours away by car, will then be reached by way of an overland transfer.

The ascent to 1st Caves Camp is pleasant and gradual as you walk through soaring cornfields and a lush pine forest.

You’ll stay here the next day after arriving in time for a hot dinner.

Day Two – 1st Caves Camp – Kikelewa Cave

After a satisfying breakfast, you’ll start the arduous ascent to Kikelewa Cave.

You can eat lunch en route at 2nd Caves Camp, and you’ll be at Kikelewa in time for a hot meal and some conversation around the fire.

As the Tanzanian landscape unfolds below and the stars appear overhead, you’ll start to realize just how high you are.

Day Three – Kikelewa Cave – Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Your short but steep hike today will take you from Kikelewa at 3,600 meters to Mawenzi Tarn Camp at 4,330 meters.

Your surroundings today are scrubby alpine moorland dotted with plants that are unique to Tanzania.

A unique camping experience can be had at Mawenzi Tarn, which offers a breathtaking view and menacing stone towers.

Day Four – Mawenzi Tarn Camp – Kibo Hut

To get to Kibo Hut, which is located in the Kibo Saddle between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, you must hike for 4-5 hours today.

You will experience the stark beauty of an authentic alpine desert on your hike today.

The night before your summit attempt, you’ll spend it at Kibo Hut.

Day Five – Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

You’re starting your day early today – just after midnight, in fact!

Your climbing team will wake you with a cup of hot tea and a light snack for energy as you get dressed and prepare your daypack for the adventure ahead.

You’ll be hiking in utter darkness for the next 5-7 hours, so take it slow and you’ll arrive at Stella Point a few hours before dawn. From here, there are another two hours of intense hiking before you reach your ultimate goal: Uhuru Peak.

Standing at 5,985m, you’ll be able to experience spectacular sunrise and take in the panoramic view. You’ve done it!

You’ll then descend back to Horombo Hut via Kibo Hut. At anywhere between 12 and 16 hours of hiking, this is sure to be one of the longest, most gruelling days of your life!

Day Six – Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi

It’s a day of celebration today, as you’ll enjoy one last breakfast on the mountain before descending to the Marangu Gate.

It’s an almost 20km walk today, but the steady downhill makes it a lot easier than the ascent.

Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll get to celebrate with your porters and guides, provide them with their tips for their hard work, and collect your certificate of completion.

Your driver will then whisk you away to your Moshi or Arusha hotel to get some well-earned rest.

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